New Zealand is known as the playground for adventure. We have picked the top 11 things to do in New Zealand.1) Cape ReingaCape Reinga also known as Te Rerenga Wairua, is the northwestern most tip of the Aupouri Peninsula, at the northern end of the North Island of New Zealand. Cape Reinga, is known as the most spiritual significant place in Maori tradition and mythology. The cape where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean is known as the place Maori spirits descend into the underworld. Everywhere you turn at Cape Reinga you are surrounded by beauty, whether it’s stunning beaches or the Cape Reinga lighthouse. Things to do: There is a 90-mile beach, a public highway on route to Cape Reinga, where you can also go sand-boarding on the sand dunes, and Rarawa Beach, a gorgeous cove perfect for surfing. 2) Lake WanakaLake Wanaka is located in the Otago region of New Zealand, at an altitude of 300 metres. Covering an area of 192 km², it is New Zealand’s fourth largest lake, and estimated to be more than 300 m deep. Its name is Māori, a corruption of Oanaka. The Lake Wanaka region is a playground in the natural wonderland of mountains, glaciers, rivers and lakes – its a living breathing paradise. You get to adventure at your own pace, in your own time, in your own way. 3) White Water Rafting, RotoruaRotorua is a city on the southern shores of the lake of the same name, in the Bay of Plenty Region of New Zealand’s North Island. White Water Rafting on the Kaituna River is known as the “best, most amazing experien” on Trip Advisor. You must experience Kaituna for yourself. It is home to the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world – Tutea Falls. It consists of Warm water, outstanding scenery, heart pumping rapids and world class guides Make sure you make Rotorua Rafting your first stop activity in Rotorua. 4) Milford SoundMilford Sound or Piopiotahi in Maori is a fiord in the south west of New Zealand’s South Island. With around 550,000 to 1 million visitors per year this has been labeled as one of the best world tourist destinations to visit. New Zealand’s own, it has been called the eighth Wonder of the World. Things to do: Tramping, canoeing, and some other water sports are usually popular. You can also take small boat trips. A very small percentage of tourists stay more than a day, so there isn’t really any accommodation for long stays. You can also check out the underwater tourist observatory found in one of the bays of the sound provides viewing of black coral, usually only found in much deeper waters. 5) Abel Tasman National ParkAbel Tasman National Park is a New Zealand national park located between Golden Bay and Tasman Bay at the north end of the South Island. A coastal paradise that you can walk through or explore by cruise boat, sailing catamaran, water taxi or sea kayak. The Abel Tasman National Park mixes physical exertion with beach life. From Hiking, to Canoeing, followed by sun bathing, then swimming and breathtaking snorkeling, and the list goes on. Accommodation consists of luxurious lodges. The most popular type of sleeping, is the sleeping under the stars outside in Nature So you have two options , one is taking the Jumping off Nevis, New Zealand’s highest bungy from a cable car. Then you have the “The Ledge” overlooking Queenstown where you can bungy at night, or take a look at AJ Hackett Bungy for more details. 6) Tongariro Alpine Crossing The Tongariro Alpine Crossing in Tongariro National Park is a tramping track in New Zealand, and is among the most popular day hikes in New Zealand. You can have a one-day adventure, walking across active volcanoes, with spectacular and unique volcanic terrain. Experience the cold mountain spring, old lava flows, active volcanic craters ,thermal steam vents, amazing mesmerizing lakes and to top it off ; a native forest to explore. You can also get the best view of the mountains and lakes of the central North Island. 7) Whale Watching, Kaikoura This is where the Mountains meet the Sea….With a population of approximately 3,800 residents, Kaikoura is located on a rocky peninsula, surrounded by lush farmland beneath the mountains. Right off the peninsular, there is a rich habitat for marine mammals and seabirds making it an ideal place for experiencing it at first hand. You will be Whale Watching! Several different species of whale can be seen off Kaikoura . The Sperm Whales are the main species seen. 8) Skydiving, Lake Taupo Lake Taupo is a lake situated in the North Island of New Zealand and is the largest lake in New Zealand, and the second largest freshwater lake. Things to do :Skydiving is the main tourist attraction. This is why our tourists visit Lake Taupo. If you are not a fan of skydiving then you can easily join the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge, which is a a cycling tour around the lake which can take anywhere between four and ten hours. There are Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay on Lake Taupō that are over 10 metres high and only accessible by boat. The cliff has become a popular tourist destination with hundreds of boats and yachts visiting the spot daily. It is a noted trout fishery with stocks of introduced brown trout and rainbow trout. 9) Franz Josef GlacierThe Franz Josef (Ka Roimata o Hinehukatere in Māori) is a glacier located in Westland Tai Poutini National Park on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island. The glacier area is one of the main tourist attractions of the West Coast, You may take Guided and unguided walks up to and onto the glacier. Glacier walks also require some specialized equipment, namely ice axes and crampons that latch onto a sturdy boot. 10) Bungy Jumping, Queenstown New Zealand is known at the the bungy capital of the world. Did you know that Bungy Jumping originated in New Zealand? Its true! The First Bungee Jump ever was at the Kawarau Bridge. And finally coming to #11, we want to end this article, with our personal introduction to our award winning Luxury Bed and Breakfast Hotel in Central Auckland. We offer a guarantee that you will have a pleasant and rewarding stay with us. We think you should choose Eden Park and Breakfast as your best choice of accommodation in Auckland. 11) Best Accommodation? Eden Park Bed and Breakfast In Auckland This Bed and Breakfast offers Four luxuriously appointed rooms with individual sophistication and character. They include The Cream Room, The Blue Room and The Yellow room with ensuite bathrooms while The Green Room comes with its own private bathroom. Our complimentary breakfast is set with china, silver and Linen. We offer a three course breakfast including a fruit bowl, with a continental selection and a hot cooked option. There is a well-appointed guest lounge, and our B&B includes a WiFi Hotspot for your free Internet. There is an excellent selection of Restaurants and Cafes near by in Dominion Road, Mt. Eden and Kingsland. The Local buses and trains are within a close walking distance for transport to the city. When you visit New Zealand and land at Auckland Airport, catch the Airporter bus. Take the Dominion Road Shuttle and get off at the intersection of Bellwood Ave/ Dominion Road, Eden Valley Shops.We are 200meters down Bellwood Avenue on the LHS. This is the cheapest option for transport to Eden Park Bed and Breakfast from the Airport. Right Next Door: Eden Park Venue Eden Park Bed and Breakfast Is located right next door to Eden Park. This is New Zealand’s largest Rugby Stadium and has been selected as a venue for the 2015 Cricket World Cup Games that will be jointly hosted by Australia and New Zealand. We hope you enjoyed our top 11 things to do in New Zealand. We hope it was helpful and valuable. Please do leave a comment below. Thank you!

As of December 1st 2014 the legal alcohol limit for drivers aged 20 years and over will be lowered from 80 to 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, or 400 to 250 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath.
The alcohol limit for drivers under the age of 20 will remain at zero.

There is no coincidence that it is Christmas Holiday time that this new law will take effect. Every year In New Zealand there are an average of 61 fatalities, 244 serious injuries, and 761 minor injuries every year caused by drivers who have been drinking.

If you’re going to drink, don’t drive, and if you’re going to drive, don’t drink.”

At Eden Park Bed and Breakfast we advise travellers to catch the bus or a taxi if they wish to go out for dinner. Please be careful..

Are you looking for affordable flights? New Zealand’s national flight carrier is Air New Zealand and this is the primary method of transport via air all through New Zealand. New Zealand’s next significant flight carrier is Qantas the Australian national flight carrier.

Trans-Tasman Market

There are other primary players in the aggressive trans-Tasman flights market (meaning the flight traffic between New Zealand and Australia that crosses the Tasman Sea) they incorporate Jetstar, Virgin Pacific, Freedom and Emirates.

The Flight Carriers

Virgin, Jetstar and Freedom are the big boys in the flights market.. Jetstar and Freedom are considered the cheap flights to and from and between New Zealand and Australia. Jetstar is actually owned by Qantas and Freedom is owned by Air New Zealand.

Small Plane Flight Tours

New Zealand additionally has Small Planes for specific sightseeing views of the New Zealand Skies. Get a glimpse from sky high, and take in the beautiful New Zealand breathtaking sceneries.

Beware of Undeclared Items

New Zealand’s Safety standards at airports and flights, are amongst the best in the world. When you arrive to New Zealand make sure you do not bring any undeclared food or items or anything that could be harmful to New Zealand’s environment. You will receive a fine if you are caught !

Enjoy

Have a fabulous time flying the New Zealand skies. You will appreciate the amicability of New Zealand air transport staff and the administration that you will get.

Bed and Breakfast Stop

When you do Arrive in New Zealand, take the Airporter Bus . It will take you straight to our Bed and Breakfast Hotel, at Eden Park. This is the cheapest method of transport from Auckland Airport. Take the Dominion Road Bus and this will drop you at the top of Bellwood Avenue,Mt Eden.We are 2 blocks down on the left hand side. The cost from Airport to Eden Park Bed and Breakfast is $16.00 (single) or $32.00 (double) For more information on how to book please visit www.bedandbreakfastnz.com/book-now/

At Eden Park Bed and Breakfast we are involved in a campaign of building and renovation. We are installing a Bay Window onto the front room and hanging new wallpaper in various rooms. The window was saved from a building that was destroyed in the Christchurch earthquake. It’s our little bit of saving a piece of Christchurch history….

28 Aug

The first five restaurants are within a 10 minute walking distance from Eden Park Bed and Breakfast. All of the restaurants have gained a following due to their high standard of cuisine and presentation. Eating out in Auckland is a pleasure. Enjoy!

It’s game day at Eden Park Saturday 23rd, August 2014
The World Champions ; the All Blacks , play Australia in the second Rugby Test for the Bledisloe Cup.
At Eden Park Bed and Breakfast we have the FULL house sign up. The energy levels around the neighbourhood are high. The Buzz surrounding the game is fun to watch . Kick off is 1935 tonight.

At Eden Park Bed and Breakfast I follow economic news with great interest . This report from the HSBC bank gives great “Feel Good ” factor about New Zealand…….

Falling dairy prices have created some doubts about the robustness of New Zealand’s economic boom. But it is worth keeping in mind that dairy is only one part of the economy’s recent growth story. Growth has also been driven by the post-earthquake rebuilding of the Canterbury region, an upswing in housing construction in Auckland and strong net inward-migration. While we expect the recent fall in dairy prices could weaken local income growth, we still expect GDP growth to be above trend in 2014 and 2015. There are also good reasons to believe that the recent slump in dairy prices could prove to be temporary.

Dairy prices have fallen sharply in recent months, with the GlobalDairyTrade price index down by -40% from its recent peak in February. New Zealand’s major dairy cooperative has revised down its forecast farm gate milk price for next season to NZD 6.00 per kilogram of milk solids (kgMS), which would be a noticeable hit to farm incomes compared to the 2013/14 season’s NZD 8.40 kgMS payout, if the fall proves to be permanent. If these price levels persist, they could knock as much as 2% of GDP off income growth, although there are a number of mitigating factors.

A key offset will be a likely ramp up in export volumes. To the extent that volumes ramp up without putting significant further downward pressure on prices, this will reduce the negative impact of the recent price fall on incomes. In our view, it is also likely that the dairy price story improves in coming quarters. The fall in dairy prices appears to largely reflect that China ramped up its milk powder inventories substantially in H2 2013 and is now running them down. We expect medium-term demand for dairy products to be well supported, as Asia’s middle class incomes rise, although, as with most agricultural commodities, weather-related supply factors and inventory cycles can drive significant volatility around this general trend.

Importantly, New Zealand’s recent growth story is more broad-based than just dairy. While the dairy sector is large, it is not dominant: in 2013/14’s stellar production season, dairy exports were worth NZD 15bn, equivalent to around 7% of GDP. Adding in dairy industry support services could boost the share of the economy reliant on the industry to around 10-15% of GDP. Even within the agricultural sector, dairy is not the full story. Meat prices are strengthening and meat exports to China are rising rapidly.

In terms of employment, agriculture is a relatively small sector. In total, 139,000 workers – 6% of the total – are classified as working in agriculture. New Zealand’s economy added +82,500 jobs over the year to Q2, but employment in the agriculture sector actually fell by 8,500 during that time. By contrast, the construction sector added nearly +30,000 jobs.

Construction has been a key driver of recent growth. The post-earthquake Canterbury rebuild, worth NZD 40bn (20% of GDP), is still in its early stages, with over a decade of reconstruction still ahead and the peak contribution to GDP growth not expected until at least 2015. Since the 2011 earthquake, total building activity in the region has measured around NZD 7bn, leaving over NZD 30bn yet to happen. Construction in Auckland is also rising, and should continue to do so, driven by strong population growth and weak housing supply. Central and local governments have recently put in place plans to speed up the growth in Auckland’s housing stock. Meanwhile, a renewed focus on upgrading buildings to higher earthquake standards should also boost construction activity, particularly in the earthquake-prone capital, Wellington.

Despite the fall in dairy prices, sentiment also remains high across consumers and businesses. Business confidence remains at levels implying GDP growth of 3-4%, with business investment and hiring intentions particularly positive. Consumer sentiment is holding up very well, with the quarterly survey remaining near a nine-year high in Q2.

Adding to New Zealand’s growth story, net migration flows have seen a remarkable turnaround over the past couple of years. Annual net migration is currently close to +40,000 (0.9% of the population), which is a huge turnaround from late 2012, when there was net outward migration of around -4,000 people. The turnaround has more than doubled New Zealand’s population growth. The major driver has been trans- Tasman migration, with fewer Kiwis leaving for Australia and a large increase in the number returning home from Australia (the highest rate in over two decades). New Zealand is also attracting more migrants from elsewhere, in particular from China, India and mainland Europe. All of those migrants will need somewhere to live and are expected to add to domestic demand.

Not only is New Zealand proving an attractive place to live, it is also attracting more tourists. Over the year to June, total visitor arrivals were up by +6% from the previous year. Encouragingly, the largest tourism market, Australia, continues to show steady growth despite the lower AUD/NZD. Visitor numbers from China have been the major source of growth over recent years, rising by +30% since June 2012. Tourism and supporting services are estimated to make up around 9% of GDP.

At Eden Park Bed and Breakfast our infrastructure is based around the accommodation sector. I do like the sound of these figures released in this report.

It is the view that New Zealand’s growth will continue to be above trend, largely driven by construction and surging inward-migration, which are expected to support domestic demand. At this stage we expect the recent fall in dairy prices will prove to be a temporary supply-side and inventory effect, rather than a permanent decline, although clearly this bears watching carefully.

With growth accelerating over the past year, the RBNZ has lifted its cash rate by 100bps since March. With a pause in the hiking cycle now being signalled, the question is how much more the RBNZ will need to do and when? Despite the fall in dairy prices, we still expect growth to be above trend in 2014 and 2015. Thanks to the strong growth outlook, we expect inflation to rise gradually over the next 12 months. We expect that the RBNZ will need to raise rates further yet, as the cash rate (currently at 3.50%) is still well below its neutral level. At this stage, we still expect another 25bp hike before the end of the year.

At Eden Park Bed and Breakfast we are involved in the accommodation industry in Auckland. Latest Tourism reports show total visitor spending in New Zealand grew by 11 per cent to $7.1 billion in the past year, driven by strong growth from the United States, Germany and China.

Financial figures for the year ending in June showed visitors increased their spending by $800 million.These figures are based on results from approximately 8900 visitors departing New Zealand airports.

The results showed there was a significant increase in total spending by visitors from the United States, up an estimated 53 per cent from the previous year to $773m, and Germany, up 63 per cent to $375m. Spending by visitors from China rose 26 per cent to $912m, as visitors moved from lower value short shopping trips to longer stays.

But how to tap the Chinese Market is still a challenge. At Eden Park Bed and Breakfast , we accommodate a percentage from that FIT market , but tapping into the Chinese Tour Market is still difficult ….or impossible !

Spending by Australians fell 4 per cent to $2.11b.
And business spending tumbled by 22 per cent from $585m to $459m.

Tourism is still strong tho. Although we found it to be quiet for accommodation in the month of July , August shows improvement . Next week we have the All Blacks playing Australia at Eden Park. Full House at Eden Park Bed and Breakfast.
Go Black !

Auckland will be having a boost to its economy with more cruise ships to arrive in Auckland. Last year at Eden Park Bed and Breakfast we had numerous arrivals with travelers arriving for pre and post cruise accommodation .

Statistics show that each arrival delivers an estimated $1 Million to the local economy in accommodation, dining, transport and shopping, as well as crew expenditure, supplies and port charges.

The cruise industry contributed $310 million to New Zealand’s economy in 2013, with $115.5 million going to Auckland. The industry has gone from being worth $63 million to $115.5 million to Auckland in the past five years.

New Zealand’s cruise market has increased every year over the past 5 years and will further buoyed by another two operators increasing their visits. Last year, 89 cruise ships visited Auckland bringing in 162,000 passengers and crew.

P&O is doubling the number of cruises operating from Auckland over the next couple of years and extending its season.This year, during its May to June season, it offered eight cruises. It will add two extra cruises and the season will run from April to June next year.

As a Kiwi sailor and being part of Eden Park Bed and Breakfast in Auckland, I am a TRUE BLACK supporter of the announcement that Team New Zealand , backed by the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron , New Zealand challenges for 35th America’s Cup.

The Kiwi syndicate, became the first team to officially announce their challenge .

Scuttlebutt in the yachting circles says that Italian team Luna Rossa and Artemis submitted their entries before Emirates Team New Zealand, but have yet to officially announce their challenge. Others who have signaled they’ll be throwing their hat in the ring are Ben Ainslie Racing (GBR) and a French challenge led by Franck Cammas, bringing the suggested total of challengers for the 2017 event to five . But scuttlebutt also says that this is all supposition because some believe that the funding for these challengers it’s not guaranteed.

After the withdrawal of the Challenger of Record ( Australia) last month, Oracle have been desperately trying to salvage the public relations fiasco surrounding the race. It is expected that the role of (COR ) will go to the first challenger to submit their entry, rumored to be Luna Rossa.

Supposedly we are also led to believe that the Italian team led the way in rallying their fellow intended challengers to issue a joint accord statement to reiterate their support for the event following Team Australia’s withdrawal . (I note Team New Zealand’s non participation in this accord.)

After last years racing and our demoralizing defeat to the enemy( Oracle ) , I am still a firm believer that we have the technological skill and the sailors to take this piece of silver from the Americans .